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Maxim and Omron Partner on IO-Link Sensor Applications

July 25, 2017 by Paul Shepard

Maxim Integrated Products, Inc. announced that its MAX14827A dual IO-Link® transceiver has been adopted by Omron Corporation. The high-performing device from Maxim, which utilizes IO-Link sensors to reduce maintenance and increase uptime, provides continuous diagnostics and monitoring at Omron's customers' production sites. It dissipates >50% less heat than other solutions and is the smallest solution available.

IO-Link, a standardized IO technology which has rapidly been adopted in Europe, is now tracking on the same growth curve in the Japan market. It has recently been attracting attention as a technology to realize smart factory applications by seamlessly connecting facilities with various plant sensors through digital communications. Recognizing the importance of IO-Link, Maxim has developed a variety of products using IO-Link technology, including products like the MAX14827A IO-Link dual-channel transceiver in new Industry 4.0 applications.

Omron is expanding its IO-Link sensor series primarily in photoelectric and proximity sensors. Equipped with an individual identification confirmation feature and unique ability to detect abnormalities and monitor situations, Omron's IO-Link sensors deliver solutions that shorten downtime, lower frequency of sudden failures, and increase efficiency in changing arrangements. This enables smarter production facilities by collecting critical data for stable facility operations, with PLCs and other superior controllers, via EtherCAT through a master unit.

The MAX14827A integrates the high-voltage functions commonly found in industrial sensors, including drivers and regulators. The MAX14827A features two ultra-low-power drivers with active reverse-polarity protection. Operation is specified for normal 24V supply voltages up to 60V. Transient protection is simplified due to high voltage tolerance allowing the use of micro TVS.

The device features a flexible control interface. Pin control logic inputs allow for operation with switching sensors that do not use a microcontroller. For sensors that use a microcontroller, an SPI interface is available with extensive diagnostics. For IO-Link operation, a three-wire UART interface is provided, allowing interfacing to the microcontroller UART. Finally, a multiplexed UART/SPI option allows using one serial microcontroller interface for shared SPI and UART interfaces.

The device includes on-board 3.3V and 5V linear regulators for low-noise analog/logic supply rails. The MAX14827A is available in a (4mm x 4mm) 24-pin TQFN package and a (2.5mm x 2.5mm) 25-pin wafer-level package (WLP) and is specified over the extended -40°C to +125°C temperature range.

IO-Link is the first standardized IO technology worldwide (IEC 61131-9) for communication with sensors and actuators. The powerful point-to-point communication is based on the long established 3-wire sensor and actuator connection using existing cables.